Currently, there is limited research-based knowledge available on the environmental impacts of mineral exploration. The project Environmental Impacts of Mineral Exploration aims to strengthen the knowledge base and identify the most effective methods for studying and assessing these impacts.

The project seeks to provide impartial, scientific research on the environmental effects of mineral exploration to stakeholders such as authorities, exploration and mining companies, NGOs, and researchers. Particular emphasis is placed on the environmental impacts of drilling activities. Key research questions include the effects of drilling on groundwater, the environmental risks posed by drilling additives, and impacts on biodiversity in both terrestrial and aquatic ecosystems.

The project involves the development of a multi-scale research and assessment framework for evaluating the effects of drilling on groundwater and surface waters. It also includes a database review of drilling additives and assesses the applicability of DNA-based methods for environmental impact assessment. Furthermore, the project explores the use of story maps as tools for presenting and publishing research data.

Drilling-related environmental concerns have led to disputes among environmental conservation organizations, exploration companies, and regulatory authorities. Permits for mineral exploration are frequently appealed in administrative courts. These legal proceedings have revealed an apparent lack of scientific data on the environmental impacts of exploration activities, often leading to their comparison with the impacts of full-scale mining operations.

In a 2024 ruling by the Supreme Administrative Court of Finland (KHO:2024:97), drill cuttings from deep drilling (commonly referred to as ”drill slurry or sludge”) were classified as extractive waste, thus requiring a waste management plan in accordance with extractive waste regulations. This decision highlights the need for a better understanding of the environmental effects of drilling and more accurate characterization environmental properties of drill sludge.

The project investigates the environmental impacts of mineral exploration through four main themes:

• Surface water and groundwater
• Drilling additives
• Drill sludge
• Overall environmental impacts of drilling

The Environmental Impacts of Mineral Exploration project is a collaborative effort between the Geological Survey of Finland GTK and the Finnish Environment Institute (Syke).

Funding

The project is funded by the European Regional Development Fund as part of the “The Innovation and Skills in Finland 2021–2027” programme EU regional and structural policy programme, coordinated by the Centre for Economic Development, Transport and the Environment of North Ostrobothnia (ELY Centre). The project is also funded by Sokli Oy, Boliden Kevitsa Mining Oy, Kingsrose Mining Ltd., Suhanko Arctic Platinum Oy, Imdex Limited, and Rupert Exploration Oy.

Budget

The total project budget is €542,895.